Baltimore vs Bethesda: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Baltimore, MD and Bethesda, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Baltimore, MD | Bethesda, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $148,540▲ | $148,446 |
| Hourly Rate | $71.41▲ | $71.37 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,718 | $86,098▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $66,636 | $118,322▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $174,239 | $181,424▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $178,368 | $221,911▲ |
| Total Employed | 330▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Baltimore, MD offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bethesda.
The salary gap between Baltimore and Bethesda is $94 (0.06%). Baltimore's median is +5.64% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Baltimore spans $127,650,Bethesda spans $135,813. Bethesda has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Baltimore ($142,161 effective) pays 4.67% more than Bethesda ($135,815 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Baltimore if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($148,540/year)
- ✓Larger job market (330 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $142,161)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Bethesda if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($221,911)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Baltimore grew 45.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.8% growth in Bethesda over the same period.
Baltimore, MD
$99,360 (2019) → $144,270 (2025)
Bethesda, MD
$153,078 (2024) → $144,178 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Baltimore, MD
Bethesda, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Baltimore or Bethesda?
What is the hourly rate difference between Baltimore and Bethesda?
Should I relocate from Baltimore to Bethesda as a optometrist?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov